Leeds Rhinos: Lilley is not short of naked ambition

Peter Smith

A FIRST Super League try spared young half-back Jordan Lilley’s blushes, as well as helping Leeds Rhinos to a crucial win.

Lilley touched down in the second half of the 20-18 success over Hull three days ago, as well as kicking four goals from as many attempts.

The 19-year-old’s try edged Leeds in front for the third time in the game and was a big moment in their third victory of the campaign.

It also meant he will be spared the embarrassing ritual of the nude run – an annual end-of-season punishment for players who fail to score a try during the season.

There are no exceptions, not even for a player with only four appearances to his name – as Lilley was last term.

“It was brilliant,” Lilley said of his first Leeds four-pointer. “It means at the end of the year I am not going to have to do the naked run.

“I had to do it last year, it is a tradition for the group. It is good I won’t have to do it this year, but it was more important to get the try for the group and help us get back to winning ways and hopefully progress up the table.”

Lilley played the full game in his specialist half-back role, and he said: “I felt confident out there.

“I say every time I am interviewed I am a confident young man and I believe in my ability.

“There was some stuff out there that was a bit scratchy on my behalf and some kicks I should have done better, but I am still learning.

“I am still learning the game and learning the position and the role I am meant to be playing in the team.

“It is coming for me. I am happy with my performance, but obviously I put a big emphasis on the stuff I did wrong and I want to improve that, rather than focusing on the stuff I did right, so I can get an overall, rounded performance.”

Lilley has been in the 17 for all but one of Rhinos’ 12 competitive games this year.